Powell 'like a racehorse' for Dragons

Dragons back-row signing Andy Powell is fired up to prove his doubters wrong when he runs out for his new club next season.

Dragons back-row signing Andy Powell is fired up to prove his doubters wrong when he runs out for his new club next season.

The former Wales and Lions number eight has returned to Union after an unsuccessful spell in Super League with Wigan.

Snapped up by the Dragons, who impressed last season under the guidance of Lyn Jones, Powell is determined to show he can still make an impact at 32.

"I've got loads left in the tank, believe me. I had eight months of doing nothing because of my neck injury but give me four weeks and I'll be chomping at the bit and out there like a racehorse," Powell told the South Wales Argus.

"I have been around for a while and a lot of people say I'm too old, but there's no chance of that. I still feel young, fit, fast and powerful.

"A lot of people can knock you but I'm looking forward to the challenge here and proving them wrong.

"I'm not looking back, I want to make an impact here and show my qualities."

Powell isn't getting too far ahead of himself, admitting that there will be a battle for places in a back-row that also features number eights Taulupe Faletau and Netani Talei.

"Ball carrying is my biggest asset but I've been brought in for my work rate, skill set, offloading and all-round game," added Powell.

"I'm looking forward to the competition for places and I'm not going to be sitting back - I want that start, wherever it is in the back row. That's the attitude that Kingsley and Lyn (Jones, coaches) want from every individual in the squad."